A GS1 US GLN number is a Global Location Number—a unique 13-digit identifier managed by GS1 that identifies specific locations or legal entities in the supply chain, such as suppliers, warehouses, offices, or departments within a company. The GLN enables businesses to precisely determine “who” is involved in a transaction and “where” goods are located at any given time, supporting product traceability and regulatory compliance.
- The GLN uniquely identifies physical locations (such as a particular supplier or warehouse), digital location, or organizational entities (such as a specific department or accounting office).
- It enables companies to monitor goods, improve business operations, and increase transaction transparency across global and digital supply chains.
- The GLN consists of three parts: the GS1 Company Prefix (licensed to an organization), a Location Reference (assigned by the user), and a Check Digit (for error detection).
- The structure is always 13 digits long and is globally unique within the GS1 standards system.
- Used to identify locations for deliveries, product returns, supplier records, inventory management, and regulatory compliance.
- Common in electronic commerce, shipping, and any application where pinpointing a party or location is critical.
- Use as Alt ID number for CPSC eFIling to substitute internal naming conventions to GLN Format.
A company can obtain a GLN from GS1 US either by licensing a company prefix (which allows for the creation of multiple GLNs) or by obtaining individual GLNs, depending on business needs. You can get them at Here
Benefits of assigning GLN numbers to your suppliers
Assigning GLN (Global Location Numbers) to your suppliers enhances supply chain efficiency, improves data accuracy, and streamlines communication across all parties in your network. You can substitute your ERP and or Accounting software vendor ID numbers with GLN numbers if you do not have a naming scheme shortcode.
Improved Supply Chain Efficiency
- GLNs provide a standardized way to identify supplier locations, ensuring shipments, invoices, and deliveries reach the correct places and reducing logistical errors.
- Businesses can track inventory accurately, minimizing costly delays and stockouts.
Enhanced Data Accuracy and Visibility
- GLNs enable precise tracking of goods throughout the supply chain, improving demand forecasting and planning.
- They build transparent, agile supply chains that adapt swiftly to market shifts.
Simplified Communication and Processes
- Assigning GLNs reduces confusion and manual data input, decreasing transaction errors.
- All business communications—orders, invoices, claims—can use a universally recognized identifier, enhancing collaboration with suppliers and other trading partners.
- GLNs help businesses meet regulatory requirements for traceability and recordkeeping, such as FSMA 204 in the food industry, and help U.S.Customs flag suppliers who may be exporting non-compliant products. You can use GLN for lab location or as an Alternate ID field
Cost Savings and Operational Efficiency
- By minimizing the need for proprietary supplier numbers and manual reconciliation, GLNs decrease administrative overhead and enhance reporting accuracy.
- Automation of processes, such as EDI communication, becomes easier and more reliable.
- GLNs are universally recognized, supporting global supply chains and enabling efficient business with international suppliers without compatibility issues.
Using with CPSC eFiling
CPSC eFiling – See example below from the Getting Started Guide – You can use interchangeably
Comply PRO+ is a GS1 US affiliate partner, and you can get GTIN, UPC, and GLN numbers here.
Example from the CPSC eFilgin s Quick Start Guide
